MLS teams in decent shape heading into second legs of CCL quarterfinals

There has been less CONCACAF Champions League coverage here with the Sounders not in the competition, obviously, but MLS still has three representatives in fairly good position this week heading into the second legs of quarterfinal series against Mexican opponents

“I thought it was great,” said Sounders FC coach Sigi Schmid of the first legs. “I think it’s great. I think it shows that the gap certainly has narrowed. Each of those games went a little bit differently when you look at it. Obviously Cruz Azul ends up putting some pressure on Kansas City but not getting a goal — Kansas City did well. Tijuana put a lot of pressure on L.A. in the second half, but L.A. stood firm, which is an important thing. And Toluca scores an unbelievable goal that allows them to get a draw out of it, but again, it shows the difference between the two leagues is not very great.

“It’s always a disadvantage for our league at this time-point in the year because we’re not in a rhythm of play like the Mexican teams are, and last year when we beat Tigres at this same stage, it was a difficult situation because of the fact that we weren’t in rhythm. I hope some more MLS teams knock off Mexican teams here in the second legs. The second legs are going to be tough going down to Mexico, but I think by not taking any goals in two of the games, that’s a huge advantage for the MLS teams because if you get one on the road, you immediately force them to get three.”